🧈 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
- ¾ cup whole milk (plus more as needed)
For the Custard Sauce:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Filling:
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk gradually to form a soft dough. Turn it onto a floured surface and roll into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle sugar and cinnamon evenly.
- Roll the dough up tightly like a jelly roll and slice into 1-inch thick rolls. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture gently over the rolls—the liquid should nearly cover them.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbling, with a creamy sauce formed underneath.
- Let cool 10 minutes before serving warm. Spoon extra sauce from the bottom over each serving.
📝 Notes
- Use whole milk for the richest custard texture.
- You can add a pinch of lemon zest or nutmeg to the dough for aroma.
- If using self-rising flour, omit baking powder and salt.
💡 Tips for Success
- Don’t overwork the dough—keep it tender and flaky.
- Pour the milk mixture evenly so every roll absorbs flavor.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle a touch of sweetened condensed milk on top before baking.
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for a heavenly finish.
🥶 Storage Options
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 300 °F (150 °C) for 10 minutes. You can also freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months; thaw and warm before serving.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I use canned biscuits instead of homemade dough?
A: Yes! Canned biscuit dough works in a pinch, but homemade dough gives the most authentic flavor.
Q: Why do I pour liquid over the rolls before baking?
A: That’s the secret! The liquid forms a buttery, custard-like sauce as it bakes—creating the dessert’s signature texture.
Q: How do I make it creamier?
A: Add an extra ½ cup milk or stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream into the sauce before baking.
✨ Conclusion
This Southern Original Butter Roll Recipe embodies everything comforting about traditional Southern baking—simple ingredients, rich buttery flavor, and pure nostalgia in every bite. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a cozy holiday gathering, one taste will remind you why this humble dessert remains a cherished Southern classic.